Sunrun reviews: What real customers wish they had known

Sunrun is a name you're bound to come across during your solar journey. Between its door-to-door sales tactics and online advertising, it’s hard to miss. But once you dig into the research, you’ll find reviews all over the map—some cautioning you to stay far away from Sunrun, and others singing its praises. 

Since 2007, Sunrun has specialized in third-party ownership models for residential solar panel systems, such as solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs). It’s also become a prominent player in energy storage, offering batteries that many customers pair with their solar panels. Thanks to these storage options and its acquisition of Vivint Solar in 2020, the San Francisco-based company has emerged as the largest solar installer in the U.S., capturing a 12% market share in 2024. 

Despite its long track record, Sunrun’s reputation is far from settled. So what’s the real story? Let’s take a look at what actual Sunrun customers have to say.

Sunrun reviews from around the web

Sunrun is a solar installation company operating in 18 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico. The company is best known for its solar lease and PPA offerings, but you also have the option to buy your system outright. While owning your solar panels is usually the most cost-effective option over time, third-party ownership has its perks—like little to no upfront costs and no maintenance responsibilities.

Currently, Sunrun offers three plans: 

• The Sunrun Subscription Plan (solar lease): You pay a fixed monthly rate (e.g., $200/month).

• The Sunrun Flex Plan (PPA): You pay a fixed rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh) of energy your system produces (e.g., $0.15/kWh).

• Solar panel ownership: You either pay in full or finance the system with a loan.

Sunrun is not a manufacturer, which means it doesn’t produce its solar panels. Instead, the company sources equipment from various manufacturers and handles the installation. Before you move forward, make sure to ask which brands they plan to use for your system—equipment quality can vary widely. 

Sunrun plans

Sunrun, Inc. on the stock market

In August 2015, Sunrun made its initial public offering and became a publicly traded company (NASDAQ: RUN). Almost 10 years later, Sunrun stock is steadily falling in 2025. Its fourth quarter 2024 financials missed revenue expectations, resulting in lowered price targets. Uncertainty surrounding federal solar incentives and a general downturn in the stock market also contribute to Sunrun’s falling stock.

With 18 years in business and the largest market share of any solar installer in the U.S., Sunrun must be doing something right. Here’s what satisfied customers have to say about their experience.

Helpful team members make the process of going solar easy

Many customers highlighted the simple process and friendly salesforce in Sunrun's reviews. One of the biggest perks of third-party ownership is the hands-off experience. Sunrun handles the logistics, from design to permitting to installation, while you enjoy the benefits of solar with little to no upfront cost. Based on positive reviews, the company excels at guiding customers through each step of the installation process.

Industry veteran status provides peace of mind 

Going solar is a long-term investment, so working with a company you trust to be around for the long haul is important. As the country’s largest solar installer, Sunrun offers a level of experience that newer companies may lack. That reputation gives many homeowners added peace of mind—but should it?

Even big names aren’t immune to market volatility. In fact, they may be more prone to it than smaller companies due to their business models. Some of the most well-known solar companies have struggled to stay afloat in recent years. For example, despite its four-decade run as a solar industry leader, SunPower filed for bankruptcy in August 2024. A company’s track record is a strong signal—but not a guarantee—of its long-term viability.

Any large company will garner some negative reviews. However, Sunrun’s average rating of just two out of five stars on EnergySage is worth noting—there are some consistent customer complaints. 

Misleading information about costs

A common theme across review platforms involves misleading promises from Sunrun salespeople. Many homeowners report being told their solar lease would slash their electric bill, only to find their monthly costs increased after installation.

This often boils down to two things:

• Aggressive sales tactics: Some reps may overpromise to close a deal, even if the home isn’t a great fit for solar.

• Under-sizing systems: Households with high energy use typically benefit more from buying a larger system rather than leasing. However, salespeople know that pitching a smaller leased system is an easier upfront sale and can lead to a signed contract faster.

Lack of customer support post-installation

Sunrun doesn’t have the strongest reputation for post-installation support. Many customers say they’ve struggled to get timely responses when something goes wrong—whether it’s a billing issue or a system that stops working altogether.

In some instances, customers said that Sunrun left their solar panel system out of commission for extended periods, meaning they had to rely on the utility for electricity while continuing to pay their monthly Sunrun payments.

Most Sunrun lease contracts are 20- to 30-year deals with a hefty cancellation fee attached. As a result, there's less incentive in its payment structure to focus efforts on ongoing customer support post-contract. Once you've signed on to receive Sunrun's solar services, they may focus more on recruiting the next customer instead of following up with existing ones.

Systems are sometimes poorly installed and neglected

Some of the most concerning complaints involve damage to homes caused by faulty installations—specifically roof leaks and water damage around panel mounts. In several cases, Sunrun failed to address the issues promptly, leaving homeowners to hire third-party contractors who uncovered more extensive problems than initially acknowledged.

Whether you lease or buy, going solar is a big investment. Your system will last you two to three decades, so it’s important to work with an installer you trust to support you long after the paperwork is signed.

The best way to find a reliable installer is to compare multiple quotes. If one company recommends a system that’s significantly larger or smaller than others, ask them why. Likewise, if a quote is noticeably higher or lower than the rest, have them walk you through the numbers.

Whichever installer you choose, always read the final contract and warranty closely. Understanding exactly what you’re signing can save you from surprises down the road.